Photo from the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Uzbekistan. Resumption of work at the Termez - Hairatan border crossing
The checkpoints on the Friendship Bridge over the Amu Darya River, which had been closed since 2021, have started operating again. The Chamber of Commerce noted that this event will simplify travel between the two countries and create new opportunities for exports.
It should be noted that the visa requirements for citizens of both countries remain unchanged.
Experts emphasize that the closure of the crossing four years ago significantly complicated business trips to Afghanistan. Despite the proximity — only 75 kilometers from Airitom to Mazar-i-Sharif, entrepreneurs had to detour through Tajikistan, which took up to a day.
The opening of a direct route should significantly simplify logistics for Uzbek exporters.
The Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the Republic of Uzbekistan predicts that by 2026, the volume of goods supplied to Afghanistan could reach $2.5 billion.
To support entry into the Afghan market, state measures are provided, including 100% compensation for warehouse rental costs in Hairatan and Mazar-i-Sharif, as well as expenses for advertising goods throughout the country.
